Drinkers of regular soda are sometimes urged to switch to the diet version of their favorite drink to avoid the calories and sugar. Most people know that regular soda has no nutritional value but many don't realize that the same is true of diet soda. Drinking diet soda regularly can lead to many health issues.
Diet Drinks and Weight Loss
"Time" magazine says new research suggests that the body isn't fooled by sugar substitutes and they are not the key to weight loss. Despite a plethora of low-calorie food and drinks Americans are heavier than ever. Sugar substitutes don't help you satiate your sugar cravings and increases your desire for sweet foods.
Tooth Enamel Decay
Although diet soft drinks do not contain cavity-causing sugar, they contain acid that can cause tooth decay. Drinking soda on a regular basis will eat away at your enamel and erode teeth over time. These drinks can erode beneath the tooth, into the dentin, which will cause dental problems including sensitivity and pain.
Bone Health
Duke University's School of Medicine has found a correlation between the consumption of diet soda and an increased risk of developing osteoporosis. Bone matter can be negatively affected by the phosphoric acid found in all types of soda. Duke recommends that you enjoy soda in moderation, as most of the health issues can be related to people drinking upwards of five, six or seven servings of soda per day.
Metabolic Syndrome
"The New York Times" reports that researchers have linked drinking diet soda with metabolic syndrome, a collection of health issues including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high cholesterol and elevated blood pressure. Overall, the Western diet, made up of refined bread, processed foods and fried meats, will increase your risk of metabolic syndrome.
Better Choices
Diet or regular soda causes many health effects that should not be overlooked. Drinks such as water, fruit juices or milk are a healthier alternative to diet soda because they provide your body with nutrients. Try to stick to one serving of soda if you decide to drink it anyway. One serving is 8 oz., not the giant 32 oz. cups you find at gas stations, convenience stores and fast food chains.
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